An Important Note

Part One - Nonviolence

I am committed to nonviolence. I believe that nonviolence is not only a moral imperative but also a practical solution to conflicts that often seem insurmountable.

My Christian faith teaches me the importance of love, compassion, and understanding. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs his followers to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39) [1] and to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44) [1]. These teachings exemplify the core principles of nonviolence, encouraging forgiveness and reconciliation rather than retaliation.

Jesus’ life serves as the ultimate example of nonviolence. Even when faced with the most brutal forms of violence and injustice, Jesus did not resort to aggression. Instead, he chose to endure suffering and humiliation for the sake of humanity’s redemption. For example, when Jesus was crucified, he asked God to forgive those responsible (Luke 23:33-34) [2], and he stated that his kingdom was not of this world, which is why his followers did not fight to prevent his arrest (John 18:36) [2]. By following in his footsteps, I am inspired to resist the temptation of violence, no matter how dire the circumstances.

The early Christian community embraced nonviolence as a fundamental aspect of their faith. The early Christians were often persecuted for their beliefs, yet they did not fight back or retaliate against their oppressors. They chose to suffer and die for their faith, rather than compromise their principles [3]. This unwavering commitment to nonviolence is a powerful testament to the transformative power of love and compassion.

Leo Tolstoy, the renowned Russian author and philosopher, powerfully advocated for nonviolence and made a significant impact on the development of this concept in the modern era [4]. Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, Tolstoy believed that nonviolence was not only a moral imperative but also a practical means to achieving peace and social justice. His influential work, “The Kingdom of God is Within You,” argues that true Christianity necessitates a commitment to nonviolent resistance and radical love, aligning with the principles of conscientious objection [5].

Tolstoy’s ideas on nonviolence emerged from his interpretation of the Gospels and his subsequent disillusionment with the institutionalized church [6]. He maintained that the essence of Christianity lay in adhering to the teachings of Jesus, which emphasized love, forgiveness, and non-resistance to evil. Tolstoy posited that the church had strayed from these teachings, becoming complicit in perpetuating violence and inequality. By returning to the roots of Christian doctrine, Tolstoy aimed to rekindle the transformative power of nonviolence and inspire others to embrace this philosophy in their lives.

Tolstoy’s philosophy on nonviolence has had a profound impact on notable figures such as Mahatma Gandhi [7] and Martin Luther King Jr. [8], who both acknowledged his influence in shaping their own approaches to nonviolent resistance. By examining Tolstoy’s philosophy and his emphasis on the Christian call to nonviolence, we further strengthen our understanding of the potential of nonviolent action to transform society and bring about lasting change. This deeper understanding bolsters our conviction that, as followers of Christ, we are called to resist violence in all its forms, embodying the principles of love, forgiveness, and non-resistance to evil.

While I respect and honor the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces, I believe that there are alternative ways to contribute to the betterment of society without engaging in violence. As the Apostle Paul wrote in the New Testament, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:17-18) [9].

I am also advocating for peace on a global scale. In a world fraught with conflict and strife, I firmly believe that nonviolent approaches to resolving disputes are more effective in fostering understanding, empathy, and lasting peace. In this regard, I am inspired by historical figures such as Mahatma Gandhi [7], Martin Luther King Jr. [8], and Nelson Mandela [11], who all embraced nonviolence as a powerful tool for change.

It is important to note that advocating for nonviolence does not necessarily imply a rejection of self-defense or the use of police force in maintaining order and safety. While upholding nonviolent principles, one can still acknowledge the need for protective measures in certain situations, without endorsing violence as a means to resolve conflicts.

My commitment to nonviolence is deeply rooted in my Christian faith, which teaches me the importance of love, compassion, and forgiveness [1]. I uphold these values by refusing to participate in acts of violence and advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflict. By embracing nonviolence, I believe that we can create a more just, compassionate, and peaceful world for all.

[1] The Bible. (n.d.). Matthew 5:39, 44. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205&version=NIV

[2] The Bible. (n.d.). Luke 23:33-34; John 18:36. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023%3A33-34&version=NIV and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2018%3A36&version=NIV

[3] Wengert, T. J. (1998). Martyrdom in Early Christianity: History and Theology. In B. E. Daley & P. R. Kolbet (Eds.), The Early Christian Martyrs (pp. 1-15). University of Notre Dame Press.

[4] Wilson, A. N. (2001). Tolstoy. W. W. Norton & Company.

[5] Tolstoy, L. (1894). The Kingdom of God is Within You. Retrieved from http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/4602

[6] Orwin, D. (1993). Tolstoy’s Doctrine of Nonresistance. In G. Hamburg & R. Poole (Eds.), A Major New Study of Tolstoy’s Thought (pp. 60-75). Stanford University Press.

[7] Gandhi, M. K. (1928). The Story of My Experiments with Truth: An Autobiography.

[8] King, M. L., Jr. (1963). Letter from a Birmingham Jail. Retrieved from https://www.africa.upenn.edu/Articles_Gen/Letter_Birmingham.html

[9] The Bible. (n.d.). Romans 12:17-21. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2012%3A17-21&version=NIV

[11] Mandela, N. (1994). Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela. Little, Brown & Company.

Part Two - Non Discrimination

As I strive to live a life guided by my Christian faith, I am not only committed to nonviolence but also to the fundamental principle of love for all, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs [1]. This commitment extends beyond the realm of physical violence, as it encompasses the need to challenge and eradicate all forms of discrimination and prejudice. The teachings of Jesus, which advocate for love, compassion, and respect, inspire me to stand against discrimination and work towards a more inclusive society. In the same way that my faith informs my conscientious objection to violence, it also shapes my strong stance against discrimination of any kind.

I believe that no individual should be subjected to prejudice or discrimination based on unchosen aspects of their identity, such as race, gender, etc., or religious beliefs. This conviction is deeply rooted in the teachings of Christianity, which emphasize love, compassion, and the inherent dignity of all human beings.

Christianity teaches that all individuals are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) [2]. This concept, known as Imago Dei, underscores the inherent worth and dignity of every person, regardless of their race, gender, or religious beliefs. By recognizing the divine image within each person, I am called to treat everyone with respect, empathy, and love.

Jesus’ teachings further emphasize the importance of loving and accepting others. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) [3], Jesus instructs his followers to show mercy and compassion to everyone, regardless of their background or ethnicity. This powerful story serves as a reminder that we are called to be neighbors to all people, extending kindness and support to those in need without discrimination.

Jesus consistently demonstrated a commitment to social justice and inclusivity throughout his ministry [4]. He often associated with individuals who were marginalized or ostracized by society, such as tax collectors, prostitutes, and lepers. By doing so, he challenged the discriminatory norms and prejudices of his time, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate society.

In light of these teachings, I firmly believe that discrimination and prejudice are incompatible with my Christian faith [1]. Discrimination based on race, gender, or religious beliefs contradicts the core principles of love, compassion, and human dignity that are central to Christianity.

No individual should face discrimination or threats of violence because of their religious beliefs. The right to freedom of religion is a fundamental human right that should be respected and protected [5]. As a Christian, I am called to promote peace and understanding among people of different faiths, recognizing that we are all part of the same human family.

My commitment to rejecting discrimination and embracing love and compassion is strongly rooted in my Christian faith. By following the teachings of Jesus and recognizing the inherent dignity of all people [2], I strive to create a world that is more just, inclusive, and loving for everyone, regardless of their race, gender, or religious beliefs.

[1] The Bible. (n.d.). Matthew 5:43-48; 22:36-40. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205%3A43-48&version=NIV and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2022%3A36-40&version=NIV

[2] The Bible. (n.d.). Genesis 1:27. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%201%3A27&version=NIV

[3] The Bible. (n.d.). Luke 10:25-37. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2010%3A25-37&version=NIV

[4] The Bible. (n.d.). Matthew 9:10-13; Luke 5:27-32; 7:36-50; 17:11-19. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209%3A10-13&version=NIV, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%205%3A27-32&version=NIV, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%207%3A36-50&version=NIV, and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017%3A11-19&version=NIV

[5] United Nations. (1948). Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights

Part Three - Our Responsibility

The transformative journey of a Christian is rooted in the aspiration to become more Christ-like, continually embodying the teachings and virtues exemplified by Jesus [1]. This spiritual pursuit compels us to extend our generosity towards marginalized populations, such as the poor, refugees, and foreigners, as well as to steward the Earth responsibly. By embracing these values, we honor the divine and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, transcending fleeting political trends.

The call to become more Christ-like necessitates embracing a spirit of generosity, particularly towards the disadvantaged and vulnerable members of society. Throughout his ministry, Jesus demonstrated profound empathy and compassion for the poor, refugees, and foreigners, urging his followers to do the same [2]. In the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46) [3], Jesus emphasizes the importance of aiding those in need, stating that caring for the “least of these” is akin to serving Christ himself.

This principle of generosity resonates deeply in the Christian conscience, urging us to extend aid and kindness to those facing adversity. Furthermore, the call to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31) [4] underscores the importance of empathy and understanding towards all individuals, regardless of their background, nationality, or socioeconomic status. By embodying these virtues, we not only emulate Christ but also contribute to the betterment of our global community.

The responsibility to become more Christ-like also encompasses an obligation to care for the Earth and its resources. As stewards of God’s creation, we are entrusted with the duty of preserving and nurturing the environment for the benefit of present and future generations [5]. This sacred responsibility is expressed in the book of Genesis, where humanity is given the task of “subduing” the Earth and “having dominion” over its creatures (Genesis 1:28) [6]. However, this dominion must be understood as a call to responsible stewardship rather than exploitation or destruction.

In this regard, our actions should be guided by a profound reverence for the divine and a commitment to sustainability. By practicing responsible stewardship, we honor the Creator and ensure that the Earth’s resources remain available for future generations [7]. This commitment transcends political fluctuations, as our duty to preserve the environment stems from our Christian faith rather than temporal ideologies.

The pursuit of becoming more Christ-like compels Christians to embrace generosity towards marginalized populations and to steward the Earth responsibly. By extending kindness and support to the disadvantaged and committing to environmental sustainability, we not only emulate the teachings of Jesus but also contribute to a more compassionate and flourishing world. By grounding our actions in these deeply-held Christian values, we rise above political ebbs and flows, steadfastly fulfilling our sacred responsibilities for the betterment of all creation [8].

The Christian faith serves as a guiding principle in the pursuit of nonviolence, the rejection of discrimination, and the responsibility to care for others and the Earth. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, this faith inspires conscientious objection to violence and emphasizes the importance of treating every individual with love and respect, regardless of their race, gender, or religious beliefs [1] [4]. As followers of Christ, we are called to extend generosity towards the marginalized and to exercise responsible stewardship of the Earth, ensuring a sustainable future for all of God’s creation [5] [7]. By embracing these values, we contribute to a more compassionate, just, and flourishing world, transcending political fluctuations and embodying the transformative power of our faith.

[1] The Bible. (n.d.). Philippians 2:5; 1 Peter 2:21. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%202%3A5&version=NIV and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%202%3A21&version=NIV

[2] The Bible. (n.d.). Luke 4:18-19; Matthew 8:1-4; 9:9-13. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%204%3A18-19&version=NIV, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%208%3A1-4&version=NIV, and https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209%3A9-13&version=NIV

[3] The Bible. (n.d.). Matthew 25:31-46. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2025%3A31-46&version=NIV

[4] The Bible. (n.d.). Mark 12:31. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2012%3A31&version=NIV

[5] Pope Francis. (2015). Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home. Retrieved from http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html

[6] The Bible. (n.d.). Genesis 1:28. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%201%3A28&version=NIV

[7] The New Testament. (n.d.). 1 Corinthians 4:2. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+4%3A2&version=NIV

[8] The New Testament. (n.d.). 1 Timothy 6:17-19. Retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Timothy+6%3A17-19&version=NIV